Volunteering

Become a Big Brother or Big Sister – It’s Not Too Late

Imagine a community where every child had a caring adult in his or her life, stayed in school, and graduated from college. This is the mission of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah—to provide children facing adversity with a strong and enduring one-to-one relationship that could change the child’s life for the better, forever.

You as an AARP members are a wonderful resource to guide a child on a path to success. Volunteers in this program are asked to commit to at least two-four hours a month for at least 12 months to share your guidance and friendship.

Serving as a mentor makes a clear difference. Independent research shows that children in this program are 53% more likely to avoid delinquency, 70% more likely to avoid substance abuse, 79% more likely to have improved relationships with their peers, and 85% more likely to have a better sense of trust with others.

Volunteers are needed for community-based mentoring and school-based mentoring, which occurs at schools throughout the state. No special training or certification is needed, but mentors do receive professional support from the program. Though some children do need help with homework or skill development, most are looking for friendship and support through this program.

Find other volunteer opportunities in your community at Create the Good, where you can find requests for volunteer assistance from many organizations, from one-time commitments to ongoing service.

If you’re interested in volunteering with AARP Utah, please contact Jill Duke at jduke@aarp.org. Volunteers are needed throughout the state to help AARP’s work with advocacy, education, and programs. AARP Utah gives presentations on health care reform, brain fitness, wise use of medications, wellness, financial fraud, and many other issues. You can help us provide information to your community by becoming an AARP Utah volunteer. Thanks for your support as a member, and please contact us if you have interest in learning more.